Ecorse dog found frozen continues recovery as donations pour in

A dog left out in the bitter cold was found in Ecorse with her paws frozen to the cement, continues to recover.

"Elsa" the dog managed to survive, while the alleged owner of the dog is facing criminal charges.

In an update. FOX 2 got a first-hand look at the dog that was left for dead, now walking proudly at the side of one of the three doctors still nursing her back to health.

It is a far cry from the first introduction to her more than a week ago.

"This is probably the worst one I've seen," said Dr. Steven Mantay.

Elsa was found frozen to the ground in a backyard in Ecorse. The dog's cries for help were heard by a neighbor, leading to animal control rescuing her and bringing her to Healthy Paws in Westland for treatment.

"When Elsa arrived, she had two problems going on," Mantay said. "One was that there was a leash constricting the blood flow to that paw, and also the paw was encased in ice."

Despite the horrible conditions she endured possibly for days in sub-zero weather, which include being found next to a frozen water bowl, her will to live remained strong.

"Through all of this, she has been a sweet, loving, dog," Mantay said. "Wagging her tail, happy to great everybody. Just very loving."

Healthy Paws has fielded many calls asking about adoption. Mantay said that will likely have to wait until Elsa is well enough and the outcome of the criminal case is decided.

The man police say is her owner, William Childress, is charged with felonies for cruelty and torture.

To avoid extreme situations like this in the future, Mantay recommends a simple rule of thumb.

"If you are uncomfortable outside, there is a good chance that your pet will be as well," Mantay said.

Elsa's story has touched so many people, even garnering interest internationally with people donating from as far as Australia, it has raised thousands of dollars to help Elsa in her recovery.

So many have reached out with donations, that her recovery is paid for. Any additional money will go to the River Rouge Animal Shelter.